(West Hollywood, CA)—Trigg Ison Fine Art is proud to announce “American Optimism: Celebrating the LA Art Scene 1935 – 1980” with an opening reception on Thursday, January 12, 2012 from 6-9 p.m. The exhibition, in honor of the statewide cultural initiative Pacific Standard Time, will also mark the gallery’s debut show in its new expanded location on Beverly Blvd.

The word “optimism” could very well be considered synonymous with America. During the great depression era of the 1930s, America faced significant economic and cultural challenges. The optimism of the American people allowed the country to survive the depression and eventually emerge as a prosperous nation equipped with modern implementations of thought, technology and culture. As history tends to repeat itself, we once again find ourselves in economic circumstances that test the endurance and foundation of American society.

“American Optimism: L.A. Art 1935-1980” will examine the history and evolution of America through the work of West Coast artists articulating a visual history of Los Angeles from the middle of the depression era circa1935 through the advances of the modern age, 1945 through 1980.

The exhibition will feature paintings, drawings and sculptures by the following preeminent regional artists:

Newly arrived paintings by artist Ron Blumberg, circa 1955, from his “Historical Los Angeles” series that examine the city through a modern, post-impressionist technique of palette knife on board. For many, this will mark the first time these works depicting cherished landmarks in Westwood Village, Santa Monica, Venice Beach and downtown Los Angeles will be seen since their creation in the 1950s.

Paintings by artist Robert McIntosh, longtime Los Angeles resident, from his earliest through modern periods, c. 1936 – 1960.

The debut of a rare series of paintings from 1973 by artist Jessica Rice.

Original paintings and early photo collages by Los Angeles Modernist Jan Stussy.

Original paintings and works on paper by American artist Jirayr Zorthian.

Original paintings and drawings by Alexander Rosenfeld who enjoyed a long career in the entertainment industry.

Original paintings and drawings by one of the foremost American Modernists Stanton Macdonald Wright.

Intricately, detailed work by artist Karoly Fulop.

Original sculpture by American artist Philip Paval.

Original figurative wood sculpture by American WPA artist Burton Freund including some of his earliest, unseen work, c. 1935-1945.

Original figurative clay sculpture from the 60s by Patricia Knop.

Through a diverse selection of work, the show will explore a special perspective on American Optimism through the distinct eyes of these Los Angeles artists. The exhibition will run through February 28, 2012.

Trigg Ison Fine Art has enjoyed a longstanding and successful presence in West Hollywood for more than twenty years. Focusing on early twentieth century modern paintings and sculpture from both America and Europe, the gallery also established a contemporary division in 2006 with the American premiere exhibition of French artist Gravieur in collaboration with actor Johnny Depp. The gallery is located at 9009 Beverly Blvd., West Hollywood, CA, 90048. For more information, call 310-274-8047 or visit online at www.triggison.com.